Metrics for Architectural Synthesis and Evaluation -- Requirements and Compilation by Viewpoint. An Industrial Experience Report

Abstract

During architectural analysis and synthesis, architectural metrics are established tacitly or explicitly. In architectural evaluation, these metrics then can be consulted to assess whether architectures are fit for purpose and in line with recommended practices and published architectural knowledge. This experience report presents a personal retrospective of the author's use of architectural metrics during 20 years in IT architect roles in professional services as well as research and development. This reflection drives the identification of use cases, critical success factors and elements of risk for architectural metrics management. An initial catalog of architectural metrics is then compiled, which is organized by viewpoints and domains. The report concludes with a discussion of practical impact of architectural metrics and potential research topics in this area.